What does "Corban" mean, and how was it misused in Mark 7:11? Setting the Scene in Mark 7 Mark 7 records a discussion between Jesus and the Pharisees about “the tradition of the elders.” They challenge Him over ceremonial handwashing. Jesus counters by exposing how their human rules undermine the Word of God. “But you say that if a man says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever you would have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift devoted to God), he is no longer permitted to do anything for his father or mother. Thus you nullify the word of God by the tradition you have handed down. And you do so in many such matters.” Defining “Corban” • The Hebrew term קָרְבָּן (qorbān) means “an offering” or “a gift brought near” to God (Leviticus 1:2). • In everyday speech it came to describe property or money “dedicated” to the temple treasury. • Once something was pronounced “Corban,” it was considered set apart—off-limits for ordinary use. God’s Original Command Concerning Parents • “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16). • This command includes tangible care, especially as parents age (Proverbs 23:22). • “Anyone who does not provide for his own… has denied the faith” (1 Timothy 5:8). How Corban Was Misused • Some sons declared future financial help “Corban,” effectively locking it in the temple fund. • The vow sounded spiritual but became a loophole to dodge family responsibility. • Religious leaders upheld the vow as irrevocable, even when it contradicted God’s plain command. • Result: parents were left needy while the giver still enjoyed a pious reputation. Jesus’ Verdict on the Tradition • He exposed the hypocrisy: elevating man-made rules above divine law. • By labeling funds “Corban,” they “nullified” God’s Word (v. 13). • Jesus affirms that Scripture stands supreme, and no tradition may override it (cf. Matthew 15:3–6). Lessons for Today • God values obedience above ritual. Any practice that sidesteps clear commands is misguided. • Religious activity must never become a cloak for selfishness. • Our vows and offerings should flow from love for God and neighbor, not from a desire to impress (Mark 12:29–31). • Believers guard against modern “Corban” schemes whenever we neglect familial or moral duties in the name of spirituality. |
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